4921 State St 26 E #100, Lafayette, IN 47905
Protect Your Teeth With Crowns
A dental crown is a type of tooth restoration used to repair teeth that are severely decayed or damaged to the point that a filling cannot effectively restore the tooth. A dental crown is designed to improve the function, structure, and health of the tooth by entirely covering the tooth. If you are looking for dental crowns in Lafayette, Indiana, we invite you to contact Highland Creek Family Dental East to learn more about how a dental crown can improve your smile. Our skilled Dentists, Dr. Shane T. Cope and Dr. Melinda Bodine, and the team look forward to caring for your smile!
Repair and Restore With Dental Crowns
A dental crown, or cap, is a restoration that can be used for several purposes. One of the most common uses of a dental crown is to restore a tooth that is significantly damaged or decayed. The crown is custom-made to fit over the entire tooth, starting at the gum line, to restore the tooth to its original shape and size. Dental crowns can be made of gold, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal; porcelain crowns are popular because they match the natural color and appearance of your teeth. Our Dentists will help you determine which type of dental crown is right for your smile.
When is a Dental Crown the Right Solution?
Your smile may benefit from a crown if a tooth is damaged or decayed to the point that a dental filling will not provide a successful restoration. Crowns can also be used for a number of other restorative and aesthetic purposes, including to:
- Protect a tooth following root canal treatment
- Anchor and attach a dental bridge
- Cover and complete a dental implant
- Enhance the beauty of your smile
- Improve a misshapen tooth
- Strengthen a tooth that is fractured or weak
- Support a large filling when little natural tooth structure remains
To find out whether a dental crown is right for you, we welcome you to contact our East Lafayette, IN dentist today!
FAQs About Dental Crowns
Q. What is a dental crown, and why is it used?
A. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth. Crowns are used to protect weak or damaged teeth, restore broken or worn-down teeth, improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth, cover a dental implant, or strengthen a tooth after a root canal. They are strong, long-lasting, and designed to match the color of your natural teeth.
Q. How do I know if I need a dental crown?
A. Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have a cracked or broken tooth, a large filling that requires extra support, a worn-down or weakened tooth, a tooth that is discolored or misshapen, or a tooth that has had a root canal. Crowns are also used to cover dental implants for proper function and appearance.
Q. What is the process for getting a dental crown?
A. Getting a crown typically involves two visits. The first visit includes examining and preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The second visit is for fitting and bonding the permanent crown, ensuring proper color, fit, and bite alignment for a natural look and feel.
Q. How long do dental crowns last?
A. With proper care, dental crowns can last many years. Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits that can damage teeth (like chewing ice or hard objects) can help extend the lifespan of your crown.
Q. Will my dental crown look natural?
A. Yes. Crowns are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. When properly designed and placed, they blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, restoring both the function and appearance of your smile.